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Nearly 40 weapons surrendered in on-going police gun amnesty

00:00, 07 November 2016

updated: 15:07, 07 November 2016

Dozens of weapons have been handed in to police as part of a two-week gun amnesty.

Rifles and shotguns are among firearms surrendered as part of the drive to keep potentially deadly weapons off the streets.

So far, the force has collected 37 items, including 12 pistols, three rifles, three shotguns and eight batches of ammunition.

Firearms surrendered in Kent Police's last amnesty in 2014. Picture: Kent Police
Firearms surrendered in Kent Police's last amnesty in 2014. Picture: Kent Police

The campaign was launched last Monday and will run until 5pm on Friday.

Police say anyone who surrenders unwanted and unlicensed firearms and ammunition during this time will not face prosecution.

Replica and imitation firearms are also being collected because although not lethal, they can create fear and distress.

Weapons seized during 2014 amnesty. Picture: Kent Police
Weapons seized during 2014 amnesty. Picture: Kent Police

Police advise calling 101 ahead of giving in any weapons, and for guidance on how to transport weapons safely.

This number can also be used to arrange safe collection of any weapon by a police officer.

Detective Chief Superintendent Rob Fordham said: "So far we've had a really positive response to this amnesty and are grateful to the firearm holders who have handed in their items."

"A significant amount of police time is spent seizing firearms that should not be out there and, with five days remaining, we are therefore keen for members of the public to continue to use this opportunity to hand in any items they have, including replicas.

Weapons must be handed in by Friday, November 11. Picture: Kent Police
Weapons must be handed in by Friday, November 11. Picture: Kent Police

"There is never a good reason to carry a replica firearm, they can cause the same amount of fear and alarm on our streets as functioning firearms.

"I would also invite anyone in possession of antique items to consider using this amnesty as a chance to hand them in.

"Every firearm handed in to us is one less that criminals can get their hands on."

Until Friday, firearms can be handed in at the following stations:

  • Ashford Police Station in Tufton Street, Ashford
  • Canterbury Police Station in Old Dover Road, Canterbury
  • Dover Police Station in Ladywell, Dover
  • Folkestone Police Station in Bouverie Road West, Folkestone
  • Maidstone Police Station in Palace Avenue, Maidstone
  • Margate Police Station in Fort Hill, Margate
  • Sittingbourne Police Station in Central Avenue, Sittingbourne
  • Swanley Police Station in London Road, Swanley
  • Tonbridge Police Station in Pembury Road, Tonbridge
  • Tunbridge Wells Police Station in Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells
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